One of the main reasons that Louisiana has never realized its full potential, both in economic growth and quality of life for our citizens, has been due to the state’s traditionally poor public education system.

Though great strides and improvements have been made over the last decade, the state still ranks 47th in the nation for student academic achievement.

Recently, letter grades were assigned to public schools, and 44 percent received either a “D” or “F” grade, in a system using a relatively low standard. The data clearly show that the system serves some, but not all, students. Many citizens have given up on public schools and bailed out of the system, often leaving only those who cannot afford other options in failing schools. Too many of those students face limited opportunities for the future.

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